The two sat close across the table.
"To be honest, L, your ambition surprised me," V said.
"It is normal to want more. Who wants to rot in this city forever? And you are the same, V," Rocky answered with a small smile.
V paused. It was true. He had his own climb in mind. Rocky's words also reminded him that this was an investment. If Ascension Technology grew into a real partner for Arasaka, V would benefit. If it failed, the blowback would touch him too.
"Fine. You are right. But this is beyond my authority. I cannot decide it. I will contact higher-ups and arrange a meeting."
After thinking it through, V decided to help. The potential was there, and because of Jackie, V would give Rocky an opening.
"Thank you."
They stood and shook hands.
"Cooperation still needs a formal talk," V added, "but if you have product on hand, sell it to us."
The acquisition was within his remit. One vial from a ripperdoc would not cover evaluation and trials.
"I have twenty. You can pick them up at my clinic now."
"Good. I will send someone with you. Security is staged outside. They will take you out."
Rocky nodded and reached the door when V called again.
"L."
"Mm?"
"Do not push Arasaka too hard. Even without this serum, Arasaka is still one of the most powerful companies in the world."
"I understand. I will handle it."
"And Jackie is distraught. Call him as soon as you can."
Rocky blinked, surprised Jackie already knew. He had told no one, and there had not been time for Lucy to trace him here. He filed it, nodded, and left.
Security escorted Rocky out of Arasaka Tower. V briefed the agent: accompany L to purchase the serum, keep eyes on him, and make sure no rival crew lifted him on the way. Friend or not, V could not trust him one hundred percent yet.
Outside, the agent drove Rocky back to the clinic. Rocky handed over the vials and watched his account fill. Twenty bottles, four hundred thousand. Big companies were generous. They did not blink.
On the curb, people stared. Arasaka had snatched him in front of the clinic and now returned him. Of course, there were looks. He ignored them and turned to call Jackie.
Something bothered him. The Deluxo was gone from his slot.
"Where is my car?"
For a second, he thought someone had tried to steal it, then remembered the anti-theft. He pulled the vehicle locator. The Deluxo sat at Viktor's clinic. Jackie had likely driven it over.
Rocky swung onto his bike and headed for Viktor's. On the way, he dialed Jackie.
…
On the other side, Jackie, Lucy, Viktor, and Misty were in the basement clinic.
"Any news?" Lucy asked.
"Not yet. Give it a minute. My buddy said it is okay. Do not worry."
After learning Arasaka had Rocky, V had told Jackie he would take care of it and release him soon. So they had stopped trying to trace Rocky's location. Rebecca was still asleep, so they waited together.
A buzz cut in. Jackie stood. "It is L."
He connected. "Hey, L, you did not—"
Lucy jumped onto the line. "L, are you okay. Did Arasaka do anything to you? Are you okay?"
The worry in her voice warmed him.
"Lucy, I am fine. Stay at Vik's. I will be there soon. We will talk in person."
"Okay."
…
Rocky stepped through the clinic door, and Lucy hit him at speed, arms tight around him. Feeling his warmth steadied her more than any words.
"It is okay. I am here. Arasaka did not touch me," he said, patting her back.
Lucy let go, cheeks colored, and stepped aside as the others watched him, relieved.
"Sorry to make you worry," Rocky said. The sight of them all here tightened something in his chest. He was not alone.
"Brother, glad you are fine. I almost went to Arasaka Tower to pull you out," Jackie said, grinning.
Viktor smiled. "Good, kid. Whatever happened, sit down, catch your breath, and tell us the story."